The aroma wafting through your kitchen as you prepare cheesy beef and bowtie pasta in garlic butter is enough to make anyone’s stomach growl. Picture the golden-brown buttery goodness mingling with perfectly cooked pasta while cheese stretches like a magician’s trick at a kid’s birthday party. Yep, that’s what we’re making today—pure comfort food bliss.

I can still remember the first time I made this dish for my best friend during our weekly movie marathon. We were both exhausted from our day jobs but knew that the only cure was a satisfying dinner followed by a night full of laughter and bad rom-coms. Little did we know that this cheesy delight would become our go-to recipe for cozy nights.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cheesy beef and bowtie pasta dish is simple to whip up on busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
- The rich flavors of garlic butter combined with gooey cheese create an irresistible flavor explosion.
- Its charming appearance will steal the spotlight on your dinner table, making it perfect for gatherings or just a cozy meal at home.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize based on your pantry staples!
Creating this dish is like crafting a masterpiece—each ingredient plays its part in creating a harmonious blend of flavors. One memorable occasion was when my family gathered for a casual Sunday dinner; their delighted reactions made every stir worth it.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Bowtie Pasta: Also known as farfalle, this fun shape holds onto sauce beautifully while adding visual appeal to your plate.
- Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for less grease but still keep it juicy and flavorful.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the dish with its aromatic charm; avoid jarred for the best flavor.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness; it provides richness that complements all ingredients.
- Shredded Cheese: A mix of mozzarella and cheddar works wonders here; it creates that gooey texture we adore.
- Italian Seasoning: This blend adds depth; feel free to adjust according to your taste preferences.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential for enhancing flavors—don’t skip these pantry staples!
- Fresh Parsley (optional): Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness once plated.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Sauté the Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add ground beef. Cook until browned, stirring occasionally for about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary but leave some for flavor.
Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic with the cooked beef; cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Your kitchen will smell divine as the garlic sizzles away!
Create Garlic Butter Sauce: Reduce heat to low; add butter and let it melt into the mixture while stirring well. Add Italian seasoning along with salt and pepper to taste.
Toss Everything Together: Combine cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet with the meat mixture; gently fold until everything is coated in that glorious garlic butter sauce.
Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top; stir gently until melted throughout—this will be your moment of cheesy happiness! If desired, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious creation! Serve warm alongside your favorite salad or some crusty bread to soak up all that buttery goodness.
Cheesy beef and bowtie pasta in garlic butter is more than just food—it’s an experience filled with laughter and warmth shared around the table. So grab your forks and dig in!
You Must Know
- The secret to making Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter lies in balancing flavors.
- Fresh herbs can elevate the dish, while undercooked pasta maintains the perfect texture for soaking up that luscious sauce.
- Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the beef first to develop its flavor. Cook the bowtie pasta while preparing the creamy garlic butter sauce simultaneously for efficient results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add veggies like spinach or mushrooms. Spice it up with red pepper flakes for an extra kick!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat on low heat on the stove, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Using freshly minced garlic instead of powdered adds a punch of flavor that’s simply unbeatable.
- Keep your pasta slightly undercooked; it’ll absorb more sauce and not turn mushy.
- A sprinkle of fresh herbs at the end brightens up the dish beautifully.
Sharing my first attempt at Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta was unforgettable; my friends devoured it and begged for seconds, proving I should have made a double batch!
FAQ
Can I use another type of pasta instead of bowtie?
Absolutely! Fusilli or penne works well too and holds sauce nicely.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
Replace beef with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty and satisfying meal without meat.
What can I pair with this dish?
Serve a crisp green salad or garlic bread to complement your Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta perfectly.

Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter
Cheesy Beef and Bowtie Pasta in Garlic Butter is a deliciously creamy dish, combining tender pasta and savory beef, all enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 8 oz bowtie pasta
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the bowtie pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef for about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Reduce heat to low; add butter and let it melt. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Fold the cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet with the beef mixture until fully coated.
- Sprinkle shredded cheeses on top; stir gently until melted and well combined.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- For added flavor, consider using freshly minced garlic instead of powder.
- You can substitute ground beef with turkey or add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg